One of the UK's leading end-of-life charities is marking a major milestone and urging the public to get involved. Marie Curie has launched its 40th annual Great Daffodil Appeal, with a rallying call for volunteers across the nation to give a few hours of their time this February and March.
A Four-Decade Legacy of Compassionate Care
The flagship fundraiser, which celebrates four decades this year, is a critical campaign for the charity. It raises essential funds that allow Marie Curie Nurses and healthcare professionals to deliver expert support and hospice care. This care is provided wherever it is needed most: in the comfort of a person's own home, at one of the charity's hospices, or through its information and support services.
Last year, thanks to public generosity, Marie Curie was able to provide direct care to more than 42,000 people across the UK. The charity depends entirely on donations to continue this work. Money raised doesn't just fund nursing care; it also supports the charity's free support line. This line offers practical and emotional help on everything from symptom management and care navigation to financial advice, including support with energy bills, and bereavement counselling.
How You Can Get Involved This Year
The charity is making it easy for people to contribute. Volunteers are needed to distribute the charity's iconic daffodil pins in exchange for donations at various locations. A key collection point will be at Morrisons supermarkets between February 23 and March 8, alongside other sites nationwide.
Jayne Waterhouse, Head of Regional Fundraising for Marie Curie, emphasised the appeal's importance and the rewarding nature of volunteering. "We believe everyone deserves expert end of life care," she said. "The 40th Great Daffodil Appeal is an easy and fun way to join in and give back to our local communities right across the UK whilst also helping us continue to bring vital hospice care to more people."
She added: "Volunteering is so rewarding, and our friendly team will be on hand to support you all the way. They'll make sure you have everything you need - including the big yellow hat - and ensure you have the best possible volunteer experience."
Supporting Research and Campaigning for Change
Beyond direct care, Marie Curie is the UK's biggest charitable funder of palliative care research. The charity also actively campaigns for a better end-of-life experience for all. By supporting the Daffodil Appeal, the public helps fuel this wider mission to improve care and support for the dying.
The charity encourages everyone to wear a daffodil pin throughout February and March as a symbol of support. For those who want to help, the call to action is clear: donate your time to collect, or simply donate and wear a pin.
To find out more about volunteering or supporting the Great Daffodil Appeal, you can call free on 0800 716 146 (Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm), email supporter.relations@mariecurie.org.uk, or visit the official website at mariecurie.org.uk/daffodil.
